It wasn’t first editions, the author’s signature inside, or the condition that interested Sylvie. It was difficult to explain even to herself, but it had something to do with the previous owner, and when she took hold of a book she just knew. Of course it helped if they had underlined passages, folded down corners, perhaps written a message in the front. “Pre-loved,” she called it.  And rarely found, but best of all, was when she came upon a postcard or a photograph tucked inside the yellowing pages.

With nervous anticipation, Sylvie pushed the door of the charity shop open.

***

This is part of the Friday Fictioneers writing group – where writers from all over the world write about 100 words using a photo as inspiration. This week the picture has been provided by John Nixon. Lots of other writers have written very short stories inspired by this photograph; click here to read other people’s and to join in. And please comment below with any suggestions for improvement on mine.